US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle arrived ahead of schedule for a state visit to Britain late Monday to avoid possible flight disruption from a new Icelandic volcanic cloud, dpa reported.
The presidential couple arrived at London's Stansted airport from Dublin, the capital of Ireland, where Obama had traced the roots of his ancestors Monday.
He had been due to fly to London for a three-day state visit early Tuesday. But his arrival was rescheduled following forecasts that a fresh volcanic eruption in Iceleand could send ash clouds over Britain Tuesday, affecting air traffic.
During their stay, Obama and his wife will be guests of Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. Obama will also hold talks with Prime Minister David Cameron and address both houses of the British parliament.
During his week-long European tour, Obama will also attend the G8 summit in France and visit Poland.
